Randy E. Richmond

ROCK OF STAGES

In the heartland stands a huge old boulder
Just off a prairie pavement’s shoulder
Nothing special its first billion years
To be cause these days of proud shed tears

Dressed now in colors so bright and grand
Created by an artist’s hand
Remembrances of freedom and liberty
In red white and blue… a history

Stories on stone of sacrifice
Pictures in paint that describe a price
There are words included of those who have died
Of the strengths of a nation tested and tried

His palette sends thanks to all vets, the old and the new
Recognizing them and what they’ve done and do
This year marks a decade that he’s honored us all
With lumps in our chests but still standing tall

I’d like to offer this young man my sharpest hand salute
His heart is here for all to see, a patriot beyond dispute
So for what you give to us on each Memorial Day
America would like to just say thank you, and also…
you rock Ray!

Randy and Jan Richmond at the Freedom Rock, Rural Iowa August 30, 2008

Author’s Note: For Ray (Bubba) Sorensen II